Common Misconceptions About Getting Pregnant I TCM Puchong

Introduction 

When it comes to pregnancy, the abundance of information available can lead to confusion and misconceptions. At Golden Gate Fertility Centre (TCM Puchong), a renowned women’s specialist clinic, we aim to clarify common misunderstandings about conception. In this comprehensive guide, we will debunk some of the most widespread myths about getting pregnant and explain how our specialists can help you navigate the complex journey to parenthood with accurate information and supportive care. 

Myth 1: You can only get pregnant on the day of ovulation

While ovulation is a critical part of the conception process, it’s not the only time during the menstrual cycle when a woman can become pregnant. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, making it possible to conceive if intercourse occurs even a few days before ovulation. For the best chances of pregnancy, it is recommended to have sexual intercourse during the ‘fertile window‘—the three days leading up to and including ovulation. This period accounts for the lifespan of sperm and the 24 hours that an egg remains viable after being released. For the most accurate confirmation of ovulation, an ultrasound scan can directly track follicle growth and its eventual rupture, signifying ovulation. Ovulation predictor kits, while helpful, only provide an estimate of your fertile window.  

Myth 2: Having sex every day increases your chances of getting pregnant

It might seem logical that more frequent intercourse would increase the likelihood of conception, but this isn’t necessarily true. While frequent intercourse might seem like it would boost the probability of conception, the reality is more nuanced, and daily sex may not be the most effective strategy for all couples. Having sex every day can actually reduce a man’s sperm count, especially if his sperm count is already low. Every other day around the time of ovulation is generally sufficient and can keep sperm health and count at optimal levels. 

Myth 3: Stress doesn’t affect fertility

Contrary to this common belief, stress plays a significant role in fertility. Stress can affect the functioning of the hypothalamus—the gland in the brain responsible for regulating hormones that trigger the ovaries to release eggs. Women who are stressed may experience delayed ovulation or miss their ovulation altogether. Stress can also affect men by reducing sperm production and libido. Managing stress through techniques like yoga, meditation, and counselling can be beneficial. Acupuncture had been proven to help individual to improve stress management, sleep quality and reduce stress negative impact on individual.  

Myth 4: Birth control permanently affects fertility 

Many believe that long-term use of birth control pills or other hormonal contraceptives can permanently impair fertility. However, these effects are generally temporary. Normal fertility levels typically resume within a month after stopping birth control. Some women may experience a delay in conceiving, but this is usually short-term, for injection type birth control, it may take up to 6 months to resume normal fertility.  

Myth 5: Infertility is solely a female issue

Infertility is a condition that impacts men just as often as women, dispelling the myth that it’s solely a woman’s issue. In reality, one-third of infertility cases are due to factors affecting women, another third are caused by issues in men, primarily involving sperm quantity and quality, and the final third results from complications in both partners and remains unexplained. Recognizing that infertility can affect either partner equally helps couples approach their fertility challenges with a more balanced perspective. This knowledge ensures that both partners undergo the necessary diagnostic evaluations and receive appropriate treatments tailored to their specific conditions. Additionally, understanding that infertility is a shared concern fosters a more supportive and compassionate relationship between partners, which is crucial during what can often be a sensitive and stressful journey towards parenthood. 

Myth 6: The position during intercourse affects fertility  

There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that certain sexual positions are more conducive to conception than others. While certain positions may theoretically help sperm reach the cervix more easily, there is no conclusive scientific evidence to suggest that any specific sexual position significantly influences the chances of conception. Sperm are excellent swimmers and are capable of reaching the egg regardless of the position during intercourse. What is more important is having intercourse regularly, particularly during the fertile window, rather than the position used.